However, the behavior in San Antonio’s city parks has not only disturbed, but also frightened some residents.
A much-needed conversation about inappropriate behavior in public parks, greenways, and other open spaces in San Antonio began in a recent Reddit thread. The man who started the conversation and asked to be called Edward says he moved to San Antonio a few weeks ago and has repeatedly seen men take pictures of women in public places, especially when women run in public parks. .
“I observed a man in expensive Nike sneakers and a raincoat with a hood on the middle of a sunny day, who used the phone parallel to himself, that is, he held it in front of him, and did not look down,” Edward says.
He explained that this man behaved differently than the homeless people he saw during his runs. Edward also noted that the man was in a “less open” area that was closer to the more isolated natural part of the park.
While Edward says he only moved to San Antonio a few weeks ago, other Reddit residents shared their experiences and observations to confirm Edward’s concerns.
“My girlfriend was hanging out with friends and men came up to her saying that two women together is against God, etc., and this is also creepy,” wrote one person.
“I like to show off, I wear revealing clothes. BUT, if I catch a pervert taking pictures of me without my knowledge, I will probably throw a tantrum!” the woman shared. “It’s not right. It’s invasive. It’s creepy.”
“I’m not a woman, so I never felt in danger when I was photographed,” the man admitted. “Why can’t we guys just look with our eyes, smile and recognize the beauty?”
Realizing the level of concern from residents, MySA reached out to the City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department and asked specifically about incidents of people taking inappropriate photos and other creepy behaviors; available data related to these incidents; and possible actions. A department spokesperson made the following statement on behalf of the Parks and Recreation Authority.
“The Parks Department prioritizes safety for all users of its parks and is working in partnership with park police, trail stewards and volunteer trail ambassadors to ensure presence and support in our public green spaces,” the statement said.
The department also directed MySA to a PSA trail safety video that only talked about using the buddy system and letting loved ones know your location.
Many San Antonio residents, especially women, already make it their duty to stay active in large numbers with groups like City Girls Who Walk, Hikerbabes, and the plus size San Antonio Women’s Walking Group. While goodness comes in abundance, people using public green spaces on their own or outside of these groups may still, and rightly so, have some concerns.
Unfortunately, the course of action, at least from the city’s point of view, in incidents like this is to call 210-207-7484 and ask for help from the police park. Please call 911 in case of emergency.
Take care of yourself, San Antonio.
